The Monster on 3rd Ave: A Night at the Trunk Space

PHOENIX - The Trunk Space is the only venue in Phoenix where patrons are greeted by a mural of a giant, green-horned monster smiling at the audience from behind the stage.

In some ways, the monster reflects the non-profit venue’s attitude towards arts and music. On its website, the Trunk Space advertises itself as an “an open, uncensored space for performance and art of all kinds, with an emphasis on that of the weirdo persuasion.”

“You don’t need to audition, if the day is open on the calendar, it’s yours.” said Andrew Tait, a regular volunteer at the Trunk Space.

The Trunk Space, located on 3rd St. and Roosevelt, has a history of hosting artists of all genres and backgrounds ranging from indie pop to noise music. Its all-ages policy allows these artists to showcase their work to all audiences, including younger audiences that may get turned away from other venues.

At this show, Tait was volunteering behind the front desk checking and selling tickets, which he said range from eight to twenty dollars. According to him, the venue averages around 50 people per show, and splits ticket sales in a way that favors the artists.

“We normally split 50/50, but we cap the venue’s cut at $200, and the rest goes to the artists.” Tait said.

Logan Nordhoff, 21, is a volunteer sound engineer for the Trunk Space. As a volunteer, he helps bands set up their instruments, and controls the sound and house lights from a small mixing desk.

“I remember seeing three high school kids do a noise show with a folding table and some scrap metal with contact mics. You’re not going to see that at the Valley Bar.” Nordhoff said.